The WOODLAND OWL (_Otus sylvestris_) in many respects resembles the Uhu,
from which it is distinguished by the slenderness of its shape, its long
wings, in which the second quill exceeds the rest in length, its short
feet, and a large tuft behind each very highly developed ear. The whole
body is of a dull reddish yellow, spotted and marked with greyish brown
above, and with dark brown beneath. The ear is whitish within, and black
on its exterior; the face is greyish yellow. The length of this bird
is from thirteen to fourteen inches, its breadth from thirty-five to
thirty-eight inches.
[Illustration: THE MARSH OWL (_Otus brachyotus_).]
The Woodland Owl abounds throughout Europe and Asia, and is particularly
numerous in the central portions of both continents. In North America
it is replaced by a very similar species, which, until recently, was
supposed to be identical with that inhabiting the Eastern hemisphere.
These birds, as their name indicates, dwell in and around woods and
forests, in the recesses of which they remain during the day, only flying
by night in quest of food. In their habits they resemble the Uhu, but are
less cruel and violent in their disposition. During the breeding season
they live in pairs, after that period they assemble in flocks, and sweep
together over the face of the country, but never actually migrate. So
fearless is this bird, that should a man approach, it not only remains
quietly upon its perch, but in some instances will not stir until shaken
from the branches. Shrew mice, field mice, and small birds constitute its
principal food, and we must therefore pronounce it to be a benefactor
both to the gardener and the farmer. The Woodland Owl rarely constructs
its own nest, but takes possession of one that has been deserted by
some Crow or squirrel. The four white eggs that constitute its brood
are laid about March. The female continues sitting for three weeks,
and is, meanwhile, fed and carefully tended by her mate, who remains
almost constantly by her side, and expresses his affection by frequently
uttering loud cries, and occasionally beating the air violently with his
wings. The nestlings require an unusual amount of food, for which they
clamour incessantly; if taken before they are fledged they may be readily
tamed.